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To Breastfeed or Not to Breastfeed

by Neighborhood-Kids.com8/15/2008 3:59:21 PM

While breastfeeding is the recommended feeding method for babies from the American Academy of Pediatrics and other medical organizations, the decision whether or not to breastfeed depends on a variety of factors that are personal for every mom and family. Here are some of the facts about both breastfeeding and formula feeding that will help you evaluate which is best for you, your baby, and your family’s lifestyle:

The decision whether or not to breastfeed depends on a variety of factors that are personal for every mom and family.

Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding provides a significant time of bonding between mother and child. And babies that are breastfeed often develop stronger immune systems and are less prone to infection because antibodies are passed through the milk from the mother to the child. Breast milk also provides all the essential vitamins and minerals needed for a growing baby and is easy on baby’s digestion. Faster digestion means, however, that breastfed babies require more feedings than formula-fed babies.

Breastfeeding is also more convenient than preparing formula and sanitizing bottles and rubber nipples, although nursing moms do have to think about appropriate places to nurse in public. Best of all, breast milk is 100% free and nursing can help mom lose post-pregnancy weight faster, and even reduces future risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.

Formula feeding
Medical concerns may prevent a mom from breastfeeding, and formula is an important alternative in such a situation, as a commercially-prepared formula will meet the nutritional needs of a developing infant. It does not, however, contain a mother’s natural antibodies and it can’t mimic the natural complexity of breast milk. But moms that choose formula are able to continue to eat and drink whatever they like without worrying about affecting the baby's health, while nursing mothers should reduce caffeine and, obviously, alcohol consumption.

Moms heading back to work might also choose to formula feed their babies since they aren’t able to breastfeed throughout the day, although pumping and storing breast milk should also be considered. Bottle feedings, either of formula or breast milk, also facilitate bonding between the child and other important people in their life, like dad, siblings, and grandparents.

While moms that choose formula save time with less feedings, they’ll spend extra time preparing and sanitizing bottles. Regular formula feeding is also an extra expense, on top of everything else that baby needs.

If you have more questions about breastfeeding or formula-feeding, consult your family doctor or contact Bellingham's Mother Baby Center. For lots more information on health issues for babies, visit Pregnancy & Newborns on KidsHealth.